Understanding the dynamic processes of Earth and other planets is relevant to many societal needs, such as assessment and forecasting of natural hazards, environmental change, and discovery of energy and mineral resources. Some of the diverse disciplines that can be studied in this department include general geology, plate tectonics, volcanology, geochemistry, geophysics, paleontology, environmental geology, petroleum geology, hydrogeology, paleoclimatology, and planetary geology.

Graduates have the opportunity to work both outdoors and in the laboratory, pursuing careers in energy, mineral, and water resources or in environmental evaluation with industry, government, or consulting firms. The substantial preparation in basic sciences and mathematics also leads to a broad spectrum of teaching opportunities. Some scholarship money is available for those who pursue a geological sciences degree as a prelaw track. The most marketable terminal degree in geological sciences is the Master of Science. Starting salaries for this degree are often very competitive with those of other disciplines.